Filed: Friday, 2nd October 2009By: Staff Writer

Matthew Upson and Valon Behrami are both expected to return for the Hammers ahead of this weekend's cruch derby with Fulham.

Gianfranco Zola's side go into this Sunday's game with points the priority having gained just four from their opening six fixtures - a situation that has left West Ham firmly entrenched in the bottom three of the Premier League at this early stage.

Upson, who has been out of action since tweeaking a muscle during the home defeat against Liverpool will be especially welcomed, with United having conceded three goals in each of their last three outings against Liverpool, Bolton and Manchester City.

The energy of Behrami - who has been sidelined since pulling up in the same game - has also been greatly missed by a United midfield that has struggled to cope in recent weeks.

Sadly there looks like being no return for Jack Collison whose energy and commitment has also been greatly missed. Guillerme Franco, who is said to have signed for West Ham last month (despite not having been seen on the field at any level yet) is also ruled out due to a lack of fitness.

This weekend's visitors warmed up for the game with a 1-0 win over Basle at Craven Cottage in the Europa Cup last night - their 13th competitive fixture of the season already. West Ham, by comparison, have played just eight games.

The Hammers face Fulham at the Boleyn Ground this Sunday afternoon. Tickets for the game are still available from the club's ticket office.